If you are always looking for new travel experiences, Latin America should definitely be on your bucket list. Thanks to its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and colourful cuisine, this continent attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. However, safety is the most important criterion when choosing a travel destination. Find out more about the safest countries in South America

Intrepid travelers head to Latin America to enjoy diverse culture, unique history, and incredible cuisine. From Mexico to Peru, this continent offers a fantastic array of experiences.

While some tourists avoid visiting attractions citing safety concerns, many of these are just silly stereotypes.

We have created for you a selection of the safest countries in South America in 2024. Ready to go on a trip?

What countries are included in Latin America?

Latin America consists of Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean, and Mexico. Thus, the following states belong to the region:

- North America: Mexico.

- Central America: Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama.

- South America: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil.

- Caribbean: Cuba, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico.

How was the analysis of the safest countries in Latin America conducted?

The easiest way to measure the degree of security is on the basis of the Global Peace Index (GPI). 23 indicators are used to calculate it, ranging from the impact of terrorism, violent crime and political instability to the financing of UN peacekeeping and military spending. The lower the score, the safer the country.

Top 10 safest countries in Latin America

1st place - Argentina

- Place in the world ranking: 47.

- Global Peace Index: 1.855.

The leader in 2024 was Argentina, which rose from third place in that year's ranking. The country ranked 47th in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. In addition, Argentina is the most popular tourist destination in Latin America than its neighbor due to its natural landscapes, which include the Andes Mountains, Pampas grasslands and Iguazu Falls.

Among the negatives, there is political instability in the country, and political demonstrations, although not very frequent, can still occur.

Fortunately, Argentina can still guarantee a sufficient level of security for travelers, with the biggest risks for tourists being petty crime and theft. Furthermore, these crimes are concentrated around the city's popular tourist areas, such as Buenos Aires and Rosario.

2nd place – Uruguay

- Place in the world ranking: 52.

- Global Peace Index: 1.893.

Uruguay often takes leading places in the rankings of the safest countries in Latin America. The country's reputation for political stability attracts tourists who can enjoy visiting cities and cultural centers without having to worry about political demonstrations or violent events.

Uruguay is also famous for having the highest GDP per capita among South American countries, which indicates a high level of well-being. This creates less motivation for petty crime and theft.

However, caution is always important. Although Uruguay is in the top 10 safest countries in Latin America according to the Global Peace Index, tourists should take personal precautions to protect their valuables. With an abundance of cultural attractions in Montevideo and natural beauty, Uruguay provides a safe and tranquil environment for guests to enjoy the uniqueness of Latin America.

3rd place – Costa Rica

- Place in the world ranking: 58.

- Global Peace Index: 1.950.

The third safest country in Latin America is Costa Rica. This Central American country has always attracted the attention of tourists for its safety, peaceful political climate and low crime rate.

Costa Rica not only guarantees a high level of security, but is also famous for incredible natural beauty: tropical forests, clean beaches, volcanic hot springs and rich cultural communities. Despite the high level of security, as in any country, there is a threat of theft. So, despite being safe, tourists are advised to be careful and take care of their valuables, especially in crowded tourist areas. Costa Rica remains an ideal destination for those seeking not only adventure, but also a high level of safety in Latin America.

  4th place - Chile

- Place in the world ranking: 64.

- Global Peace Index: 1.978.

Chile, once ranked as the safest country in Latin America, saw some deterioration in its Global Peacefulness Index due to some inconsistent police reforms in 2019. However, compared to other South American countries, Chile remains a relatively safe destination for tourists, especially outside the urban centers.

The most serious threats concern civil unrest in densely populated urban areas. Political protests and demonstrations are a major source of security risk. However, the vast majority of tourist sites in Chile, which includes regions of non-urban settlements, remain relatively peaceful and maintain the country's security.

Petty theft is concentrated mainly in large cities such as Santiago. It should be noted that the most attractive places for tourists, such as the Torres del Paine National Park, the Atacama Desert and Easter Island, remain in rural areas, providing peace and security for tourists who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Chile.

5th place – Bolivia

- Place in the world ranking: 68.

- Global Peace Index: 2.009.

Perhaps the cheapest country in South America to visit, Bolivia in 2024 rose from seventh to fifth place in the ranking of the safest countries in Latin America. Although the country is experiencing civil unrest, most of Bolivia's attractions are centered around natural areas free of the political demonstrations that can occur in more urbanized regions.

However, as in any other country, there are regions in Bolivia that are best avoided, primarily the large cities of El Alto and La Paz. Like most big cities, these areas are notorious for petty crime and pickpocketing, so extra care should be taken when visiting. However, when visiting less urbanized areas such as the salt flats of Uyuni or the regions around the Amazon rainforest, you shouldn't worry too much about these crimes.

Another thing to watch out for when visiting Bolivia is the country's state of militarization. Although this does not affect tourists, it creates a sense of danger and requires you to plan your routes more carefully to avoid roadblocks.

6th place - Paraguay

- Place in the world ranking: 74.

- Global Peace Index: 2.044.

Although Paraguay is not as popular as neighboring countries in Latin America, the country attracts with the absence of tourist crowds, unique sights and a fairly high level of security. Thanks to the affordable cost of travel, everyone will be able to enjoy authentic adventures.

However, it is important to be careful about possible petty theft, especially in big cities. By keeping your valuables safe, you can avoid trouble. It is noted that traffic standards can be a challenge for those who are not used to the dangerous tactics of drivers. In this case, it is better to refrain from renting a car or motorcycle, stopping at efficient and safe public transport.

7th place – Panama

- Place in the world ranking: 96.

- Global peace index: 2.140.

Panama, despite a decrease in security due to civil unrest, remains a wonderful and safe travel destination. Most of the political protests usually take place in Panama City, while the country's other tourist centers remain calm. We recommend traveling to regions that are less prone to political turbulence, especially the San Blas Islands. A sense of political isolation reigns here, creating ideal conditions for a safe and enjoyable vacation.

8th place – Dominican Republic

- Place in the world ranking: 97.

- Global peace index: 2.157.

Ranked as the eighth safest country in Latin America, the Dominican Republic is a unique Caribbean destination. With beautiful beaches, white sand, palm trees and luxury hotels, this country attracts tourists as a famous resort.

However, it is important that travelers exercise caution when venturing outside the main resort areas in towns such as Punta Cana, Santo Domingo and Playa Dorada. Conditions of civil unrest and high levels of poverty can lead to petty theft and even armed robbery.

However, if you avoid leaving the main tourist areas and only use hotel-provided transport, most of these crimes can be avoided. In general, the Dominican Republic remains an attractive resort located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea and provides a vacation with a high level of security.

9th place – Cuba

- Place in the world ranking: 98.

- Global Peace Index: 2.160.

Known for its beautiful white sand beaches that meander into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, Cuba has long been one of the world's top resort destinations.

And although many tourists advise not to leave the territory of the resort while visiting the island, Cuba has become one of the safest countries in Latin America in recent years.

A tour of Havana's colonial buildings and a hike through the Vinales Valley are some of the most popular activities on the island. However, as in all major tourist cities, petty theft may occur while visiting the capital. It is important to be careful and secure your valuables when traveling outside of the main resort areas.

10th place - Salvador

- Place in the world ranking: 107.

- Global Peace Index: 2.250.

In fact, in just two years, El Salvador turned from one of the most dangerous countries in the world into one of the safest countries in Latin America. This country has long suffered from numerous gangs, but one day the president said enough is enough.

At the end of March 2022, 87 people were killed in a 3-day period, with 62 murders occurring on Saturday alone. This prompted President Nayib Bukele to declare a state of emergency, suspending some laws and giving law enforcement new powers that allowed them to carry out mass arrests of gang members without the red tape that delays the process.

This state of emergency, which is still in effect as of July 2024, has fundamentally changed the country.

It's safe to say there's never been a better time to visit this beautiful state, home to the stunning Santa Ana Volcano and nearby Lake Coatepeque, the world-famous El Tunco surf spot and nearby Bitcoin Beach.

El Salvador is truly an underrated country with plenty of stunning natural beauty and many colonial buildings. It can rightfully be considered one of the best countries to visit in Central America.

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What dangers in Latin American countries scare foreigners?

Latin America is much safer than most tourists think. Traveling here does not mean that a few minutes after arriving at a Mexican airport you will fall into the hands of the dreaded cartels. However, certain threats still exist:

  - Violence is a problem in some regions. However, such situations usually occur in certain areas and often between local residents involved in criminal activities. Tourists rarely become victims of violence.

  - Robbery is the biggest threat to tourists in Latin American countries. However, if general safety precautions are followed, the risk is minimal.

  - Political instability is another important danger to be aware of. This is a region where things can change quickly without warning. Therefore, it is better to avoid traveling here during the election period.

  - Wild nature poses a threat not only to tourists, but also to local residents. Mosquitoes pose perhaps the greatest danger, given the diseases they carry and how widespread they are. There are many dangerous creatures such as jaguars, crocodiles, snakes, poisonous frogs and deadly spiders. Among the positives, they are extremely rare.

How to stay safe while traveling in Latin America?

Latin America is a region that requires a bit more precautions than, for example, traveling in Europe. Here are some tips to protect yourself from some of the main threats in this wonderful part of the world:

- Do not go out alone at night.

- Use Uber or similar apps instead of street taxis.

- Do not take your phone out of your pocket on the street at any time of the day.

- If you need to use the phone in a big city, go to the nearest store, cafe or restaurant.

- It is strictly forbidden to use drugs, you should also be careful with alcohol.

- Wear long clothes, use special sprays and sleep under a mosquito net to avoid mosquito bites.

- Avoid contact with fresh water sources, it is better to swim in the sea or a chlorinated pool.

- Inform loved ones about your whereabouts and plans.

Latin America is a truly fantastic region that will give you many pleasant experiences, so be sure to visit these countries, but follow all safety rules.

We will remind you! Ongoing protests in Latin America have led to large-scale problems in the work of consular institutions in Venezuela, Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Peru, Uruguay and other countries. Also, more than 300 flights have already been canceled. Read in this article what is the reason for this situation and what threatens foreigners.

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